Do older power cables still hold up to newer ones?

Unfortunately technology does move forward. But much like in components, high end stuff does not go out of date as fast.

I am retired as well and understand your dilemma. But I also just upgraded my system and all of it’s cords. No question there have been some big advances. But I think given your situation assume your existing cords are still excellent… and replace what is likely to make the biggest difference. The amp power cord.

I tried a number of amp power cords… they made a big difference… but none of them got it right. Finally after a year… my dealer brought over an Audio Quest Hurricane. It was hugely different and all better. I recommend trying this… and then assume the changes on other stuff will be much smaller. They didn’t normally sell Audio Quest… but the forums and audio community was abuzz about them, so he bought one. 

Once I got my components all squared away. I took my time in adjustments. Given your interconnects are high quality. I would not look to move quickly. If you are really enjoying your system and are retired (as in no longer in “must finish this immediately” mode. You can casually take a look at another cable next year. Anyway, I have been retired for five years… relaxing more and enjoying more… not being in a hurry. A couple hundred hours or more before considering the next change gives you incredible insight into what your system sounds like and sensitivity to small changes. So, repositioning after another 500 hours can result in better sound. Etc.

@ghdprentice  Thanks. Yeah and if I were to upgrade the amp PC it is X2$ because it is a fully dual mono amp with 2 separate power cords, 1 for each channel so not cheap!

Which BMI Whales do you have, the Elites or Supremes?  I've had both with the Supremes being much better to my ear.  One area where the older cords can fall short is in the quality of their plugs.  Many companies/builders were using (and some still do) inferior plugs.  I began experimenting with better plugs (IeGO and Oyaide) and was able to get much better sound from several decent older power cords.  And the different plugs can significantly alter the sound so a bit of research on their sound characteristics would reduce the need for hit and miss experimentation.  

Nice amp BTW!  The best amp I ever owned was the 70/70 Signature.

Regarding power cables... while newer varieties my provide a different flavor, they are not necessarily better IME.  Marketing is the driving force behind cables, most of which is hype to justify high prices.  If you like the sound of your system, upgrading cables would be low on my priority list.

+1 on your nice equipment.

I will preface with the fact that I never thought cables would affect sound reproduction in a meaningful way...

However, when I demoed the new (then) Audioquest cables, I had to admit that, yes cables do make a difference. (As your experience with the AQ Hurricane's shows).

As much of the new cables are rather pricey, I tend to buy used and troll HifiShark.

Though I might be a generation or two behind the cutting edge, I still get to enjoy upgraded sound quality.

B

@lcherepkai  BMI Whale Elites I believe. They are just on my AMP which is plugged into it's dedicated 20 amp line straight into  the wall outlet.

@pdreher My amp will be getting the mk III upgrade this fall, I've already talked to Brent @ VAC about it. I love this amp and it pairs well with my Goldenear Triton 1.r's and Silversmith Fidelium speaker cable. These GE's bested the Genesis Model V they replaced.

If you like the sound of your system, upgrading cables would be low on my priority list.

Sorry but if you like the sound of your system a great ac cord will just make it sound better IMHO and experience.

Older High end ones still do….CARDAS, NORDOST , FURUTECH, OYAIDE ."L 

A typical power cord will start to lose phlogiston after several years of use. The result will be flat, uninvolving sound. You will start to wonder where the "magic" went! Since phlogiston can't be replaced the only solution is to buy another power cord. Don't forget burn-in to align the metal atoms!

There have been tremendous advances in power cable technology....er wait,   I guess there hasn't been any.....carry on.

fthompson251

You have built a very nice system. No doubt that technology has vastly improved over 20 years. After you live with the Pre-amp and Power amp upgrades for awhile, then seek out Cables/Cords upgrades as well. Let me know about the Electra 8 cord into  your system. 

Another approach is to research which brand(s) of Cables/Cords sonically match VAC gear.

Happy Listening!

What I've noticed, and I've been in this hobby for more than 1/2 century too, is that the improvements are typically in their new best cables.  Then many times their old best cables just move down a notch or two in the product line sometimes with a new name.  What you may currently have could be the same as what they're currently marketing one or two notches down from where they were when you bought them. Not familiar with your brand but that's what the (very well known) manufacturer I use has done.  Name withheld to protect the innocent 🙃

I have no problem with used/older cables that have a vetted reputation. Virtual Dynamics Master and David series are well worth hunting for. They are fantastic and well under $1000. If I ever decide to move up to something higher end I’d probably migrate to High Fidelity Cable PC’s.

I think @jasonbourne52  is on to something. 

@knighttodd, definitely onto something, but what? 

Power cables do NOT affect audio quality 

Upgrade your amp first. In the meantime, research power cables.

Don't listen to @jasonbourne52 , he believes wire is wire. And he's quite possibly an alchemist. 

@knighttodd  +1

I believe the power cords you have are good however there are better available that will most likely sound better after the break-in. As mentioned by others in several above posts.

@lowrider57   This amp is not going anywhere-(except for the update at VAC in FL) I plan to live with it. I enjoy the humor  @jasonbourne52 brings to the table. 

 I enjoy the humor  @jasonbourne52 brings to the table. 

                     Big fan of Greek Tragicomedy, too?

Depends on the cable some do some do not.Good luck!!

@fthompson251 -

 This amp is not going anywhere-(except for the update at VAC in FL)

                                              +1 

     Good decision and any upgrades to the power supply (if in their options) will make power cable changes more noticeable (good or bad).   

I would concur about a plug change on your current cords. I think the biggest difference  is in the plugs. These will likely  shock you if you change them on your dedicated  lines. And should not blow your budget to bad. Buy one try it before  you buy both if you don't like the receptacle  not as much gone and you can resell it and your total cost of the tryout will not be to much that way.https://www.partsconnexion.com/FTECH-81015.html

If you want to experience the improvement power cables can bring to your system, insert Shunyata Research NR (noise reducing) cables and find out. You will learn how much the noise level of your system can drop with power cables that reduce noise going to and coming from your components. Yep, you are hearing the conductor breathing…

@fthompson251 

Since the amps are going to VAC for a lot of upgrades (rebuild, tubes) I would suggest that you bring (or send) the amp PCs and ask them to run the inevitable tests they must run as a manufacturer with your PCs.  They do testing all the time and should be able to accommodate you.  Go with what they say...I'll make a gentleman's bet that they say keep the cords you have.  And be sure to ask what PCs they recommend.

Considering that the amp will be essentially new I wouldn't make any other move until your totally familiar with the sound and they are well broken in.

Just my two cents.  

Regards,

barts

@fthompson251  that's my suggestion, to update your amp before buying new cables. The VAC is a wonderful amp. 

I am still using older Shunyata power cords in both systems. My Copperhead and Diamondback Platinum cords still give me the magic and still use the original Hydras too.  My system is totally noise free and sounds great, so why change?  My rule of thumb is not to spend anymore than $500 on any cable, preferably used. 

Recently (past 5 years) some cable manufacturers have incorporated "newer thinking" in their power cable designs.  These have, in some cases, resulted in a 2x improvement in performance vs cost.  Even considering cable prices increases of 40% (or, more) the sonic bang-for-the-buck can still be better in newer cables vs old.  So, even if your old cables are immaculate, and still sound incredible to you, it might be worth auditioning something newer.  You can always return it.

For you power cable deniers out there, this post is probably going to peg the needle on your B.S. meter.  That's cool.  You can just go check the ignition timing on your Tesla.  Or, something.

@waytoomuchS…

The name says a lot… And that B.S. is pegging something else… Lol

Enjoy the music and the humour 

Cheers

Recently (past 5 years) some cable manufacturers have incorporated "newer thinking" 

 … The question is whether the thinking occurred in the marketing department or in the design team?

if in the design team what inspired them? Is there such a thing as a science of  cable technology which shares its research and discoveries or is this industry based on a bunch of people in individual closets dreaming up things that they think work?

@lowrider57  Ah, I understand you now. I thought you suggested I get rid of the amp to upgrade but now I understand. Yes, the amp upgrade is next on the list of improvements. That will happen this October.

To be clear, i am not thinking of upgrading my power cables, I was just looking for information as to how much they have progressed in the past 15 years. 

I feel my money might be better spent on my amp, new tubes for it and then either a nice REL Sub or an Arender streamer. Bang for the buck.